Enlarged spleen (a lymphoid organ which lies just under the left ribs)

how is it transmitted?

The virus that causes mono is spread mainly through saliva, which is why it is named
the "kissing disease". Sharing a cup or toothbrush and kissing on the mouth are known
methods of transmission. Being a household contact (boyfriend/girlfriend and occasionally
roommate) increases your changes of exposure. However most people that get mono (>50%)
have no known exposure. Sitting in a classroom or lecture hall or living in a residence
hall with a student who has mono does NOT increase your chance of getting the disease
(unless the student with mono kisses you on the mouth or spits in your face). Being
tired, stressed, malnourished or fatigued place you at greater risk, since your immune
system is not able to fight exposure to the virus.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider at the Student Health Center will do a history and physical
(ask you questions and examine you). Blood tests may be recommended. Often the initial
blood test (which tests for antibodies to the virus) may be negative, because your
immune system has not yet produced enough antibodies to be detectable by lab confirmation.
If the 1st test is negative, this does not indicate that you either been misdiagnosed
or that you do not have mono. You will probably also be tested for "strep throat",
as many of the signs and symptoms of mono and strep are similar. If the strep test
is negative, and if your signs and symptoms and CBC (blood count) results suggest
mono, you will be asked to return to the health center in a few days for further testing.

How it is treated?

Since mono is caused by a virus, there is no antibiotic treatment. Rest and fluids
(allowing your immune system to fully function) are the best forms of treatment.
Your health care provider may prescribe steroids if airway obstruction is a possibility
to try to decrease the size of the tonsils.

How long does it last?

Symptoms usually last for one to two weeks. If you immune system is compromised or
if you are not resting, symptoms may last a few months. You will be advised to get
plenty of sleep and abstain from strenuous physical activity.

Can I attend classes with mono?

Most college students can continue to attend classes. Since mono is not spead in
the air, isolation is not required to prevent contagion. Adequate rest and proper
nutrition (including fluids) are necessary for recovery. If you feel like you are
falling behind academically, academic advisers and professor may be notified (with
your written consent), and most are willing to assist and accommodate while you recover.

What are the complications of mono?

Rupture of the spleen ( if is is enlarged). Strenuous physical activity and contact
sports are NOT recommended

Airway obstruction from enlarged tonsils. Steroids will be prescribed if you have
difficulty breathing

Infection of the liver. Alcohol should be avoided while you are ill and recovering

Depression and lack of motivation. A patient with mono will be reminded that fatigue
and depression are common, and almost always resolve with time.

What should I do if i think i have mono?

If you think you have mono, make an appointment at Student Health Services to be seen
by a health care provider.